Types of Tradescantia Varieties: The Complete Guide

Tradescantia, often known as the wandering Jew, is a beloved houseplant among plant lovers for its vibrant foliage and easy care. Its varieties offer a delightful range of colors and patterns that can brighten up any space. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your green journey, this guide will introduce you to some popular types of Tradescantia and how to keep them thriving.

In this article, we'll explore several Tradescantia varieties, highlighting their unique features and care requirements. From the classic Tradescantia zebrina to the striking Tradescantia spathacea, you'll discover plants that suit your style and space. So grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and let's dive into the world of these charming plants.

Tradescantia Zebrina

First on our list is the Tradescantia zebrina, also known as the inch plant. Its name comes from the zebra-like stripes on its leaves, which are a stunning mix of green, silver, and purple. This variety is perhaps the most recognized and is often a favorite for hanging baskets due to its trailing nature.

The zebrina is pretty low-maintenance, making it ideal for those who might not have a green thumb just yet. Here are a few tips to keep it happy:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is perfect for Tradescantia zebrina. While it can tolerate low light, the vibrant color of its leaves may fade. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
• Water: Keep the soil lightly moist, but be careful not to overwater. The top inch of soil should dry out between waterings.
• Humidity: This plant enjoys a bit of humidity. If your home is dry, consider misting the leaves occasionally.

With its fast-growing nature, you might find yourself needing to trim it back to keep its shape. Don't throw away those cuttings, though! You can easily propagate them in water to share with friends or expand your own collection.

Tradescantia Pallida

Tradescantia pallida, also known as the purple heart or purple queen, boasts striking purple leaves that can add a bold splash of color to any room. This variety is just as easy to care for as the zebrina, and it's known for its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions.

Here’s how to keep your purple heart thriving:

• Light: Bright, indirect light will help maintain its vibrant color. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, which may even enhance its purple hues.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's better to err on the side of caution.
• Temperature: Tradescantia pallida prefers warmer temperatures, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

This plant is not only beautiful but also versatile. It can be used as a ground cover in warmer climates, or as a trailing plant in a pot or hanging basket. Its resilience makes it a great choice for beginners.

Tradescantia Fluminensis

Tradescantia fluminensis, often called the small-leaf spiderwort or inch plant, is another fantastic variety. It features glossy green leaves that create a lush, full look. While similar in care to other Tradescantia varieties, it has a few unique characteristics.

To care for Tradescantia fluminensis, follow these guidelines:

• Light: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions. However, lower light may result in slower growth.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry out between waterings.
• Pruning: Regular pruning will help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.

This plant is known for its rapid growth, so don't be surprised if it quickly fills out a space. It's also an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in warmer climates.

Tradescantia Spathacea

Tradescantia spathacea, commonly known as the Moses-in-the-cradle or oyster plant, stands out with its unique boat-shaped leaves. The leaves are green on top and purple underneath, creating a striking contrast that adds visual interest to any collection.

Here’s how to take care of your Tradescantia spathacea:

• Light: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Too much direct sun, however, might cause leaf burn.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. It's better to underwater than overwater, as Tradescantia spathacea is prone to root rot.
• Soil: A well-draining potting mix is essential. Consider adding some perlite or sand to improve drainage.

This variety is quite versatile and can be used in various settings, from container gardens to indoor pots. Its unique appearance makes it a conversation starter, and it's relatively easy to maintain.

Tradescantia Sillamontana

For something a bit different, Tradescantia sillamontana, or white velvet, offers a unique texture with its fuzzy, silver-green leaves. This variety is native to the deserts of Mexico and has adapted to withstand drought conditions.

Here’s how to care for Tradescantia sillamontana:

• Light: It thrives in bright, indirect light and can handle some direct sunlight. Too much shade can cause the leaves to lose their velvety texture.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This plant is drought-tolerant, so it can handle a bit of neglect.
• Humidity: Unlike other Tradescantias, this one doesn't require high humidity, making it perfect for drier climates.

Tradescantia sillamontana’s unique appearance makes it a standout addition to any plant collection. It's also a great conversation piece, thanks to its unusual texture and growth habit.

Tradescantia Nanouk

Tradescantia nanouk is a newer variety that's quickly gaining popularity. Its leaves are a blend of pink, purple, and green, creating a pastel dream of a plant. It's not only beautiful but also hardy, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced plant people.

Here's how to keep your Tradescantia nanouk looking its best:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best to maintain its vibrant colors. Too little light can cause the colors to fade.
• Water: Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious.
• Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

This variety grows quickly, and its trailing nature makes it perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing accent in a larger pot. Its eye-catching colors are sure to brighten up any room.

Tradescantia Chrysophylla

Tradescantia chrysophylla, also known as golden tradescantia, features striking golden-green leaves that can add a warm, sunny touch to any indoor space. This variety is a bit less common, but its unique coloration makes it worth seeking out.

To care for Tradescantia chrysophylla, consider these tips:

• Light: Bright, indirect light will help maintain its vibrant color. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root issues, so it's best to err on the side of caution.
• Temperature: This plant prefers warmer temperatures, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Tradescantia chrysophylla is a great option for those who want to add a pop of color without overwhelming their space. Its warm tones can complement a range of decor styles, making it a versatile choice for any home.

Tradescantia Albiflora 'Nanouk'

The Tradescantia albiflora 'Nanouk' is another standout variety with its vibrant pastel colors and compact growth habit. This variety was bred for its robust nature and beautiful coloring, making it a great option for plant lovers of all experience levels.

Here's how to care for Tradescantia albiflora 'Nanouk':

• Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal to maintain its vivid colors. Avoid too much direct sunlight as it can fade the leaves.
• Water: Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Be careful of overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilizer: A balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season can support healthy growth.

This variety is perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing accent in larger arrangements. Its vibrant colors are sure to catch the eye and add a cheerful touch to any room.

Tradescantia Ohiensis

Finally, we have Tradescantia ohiensis, also known as the Ohio spiderwort. This variety is a bit different, as it's often grown outdoors for its beautiful, three-petaled blue flowers. However, it can also adapt to indoor conditions with the right care.

To keep your Tradescantia ohiensis healthy, follow these guidelines:

• Light: It prefers full sun to partial shade. Indoors, a bright spot will help it thrive.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but be careful not to overwater.
• Temperature: This plant is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers moderate climates.

Tradescantia ohiensis is a lovely addition to any garden or indoor plant collection. Its unique flowers and ability to thrive in various conditions make it a versatile choice for plant lovers everywhere.

Final Thoughts

Tradescantia varieties offer something for everyone, from the bold colors of the purple heart to the delicate beauty of the Ohio spiderwort. Each variety has its own charm and care requirements, but they all share a common trait: they're relatively easy to care for and incredibly rewarding to grow.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping plant people find the perfect addition to their collection. Whether you're seeking advice on plant care or looking for unique varieties, we're here to support your plant journey. Feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on Instagram for more plant inspiration and tips. We're excited to help you create a thriving plant haven in your home!